Five States Step Up Efforts to Screen Newborns for Cystic Fibrosis

July 11, 2008

Four states--Arkansas, Kansas, Maine, and West Virginia--have joined 40 others and the District of Columbia in requiring that all newborns be screened for cystic fibrosis (CF) at birth. 

In addition, Utah has cleared the way to begin regular CF screening as well. Routine screening is expected to begin January 1, 2009.

“Newborn screening for cystic fibrosis is critically important because it allows doctors to diagnose the disease before a child becomes ill,” said Robert J. Beall, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “Early diagnosis leads to a better chance for a healthier and longer life. Each of these states has taken an important step in the fight against cystic fibrosis.”